Progress in silica gel–water adsorption refrigeration technology

The silica gel–water adsorption refrigeration has attracted much attention especially in the last two decades, due to its environmentally friendly refrigeration that can be powered by low grade heat source. In this paper, we reviewed the research about silica gel–water adsorption technology, cooling systems as well as heat pumps. The technological developments of silica gel–water adsorption refrigeration, including working pairs, heat and mass transfer, cycle and system design, simulation work, prototypes and applications, were discussed. The advantages of silica gel–water adsorption refrigeration technology as well as its disadvantages were elucidated. Finally, the prospect of this refrigeration method was analyzed. The weak heat and mass transfer performance of the adsorbent material was the main bottleneck of the silica gel–water adsorption refrigeration technology and resulting in large size, low performance and high cost.